The U.S. 1858 Cent, part of the Flying Eagle series designed by James B. Longacre, was composed of 88% copper and 12% nickel, marking a shift from earlier large cents. Its smaller size and nickel content reflected efforts to improve coin durability and circulation. As the U.S. economy expanded, the U.S. 1858 Cent played a key role in everyday transactions, adapting to changing monetary needs.
In 1858, the U.S. 1858 Cent circulated amid rising tensions over slavery and state rights, leading toward the Civil War. The growing demand for nickel influenced coin production. The U.S. 1858 Cent symbolized economic modernization, reinforcing stable commerce during a politically divided era.